Copper
Copper
Symbol: Cu,
Atomic Number — 29,
Mass Number — 64
Physical and Chemical Properties :
This is a tough, reddish colour metal whose specific gravity is 8.95, and its melting point and boiling point are 1083°C and 2310°C. It is malleable and ductile. This is a good conductor of heat and electricity.
Alloys of Copper
| Alloys | Composition | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Brass | Cu + Zn | Used in making idols, household utensils, etc. |
| German silver | Cu+ Zn + Ni | Used in making idols and utensils. |
| Bell metal | Cu + Sn | Used in making bells, utensils, idols, coins, etc. |
| Delta metal | Cu + Zn | Used in making propellers of ships, as resistant of sea water. |
Compounds of Copper
Cupric Sulphate (CuSO)4 :
This is the main compound of copper, and it is also called blue vitriol (CuSO)4.5H2O. This is basically a solid crystalline substance of blue colour in water. A mixture of CuSO4.5H2O and Ca(OH)2 is called Bordeaux Mixture, and it is used as a fungicide.
Cuprous Oxide (Cu2O) :
This is a red colour solid substance, insoluble in water. It is obtained as a red precipitate by heating CuSO4 with glucose and NaOH solution.